Vital Nutrition Blogs

Chia Seeds

I’ve only been introduced to chia seeds in the last year and I am really wondering why it took so long. I love them!

Ch-what you’re asking? Chia (pronounced “CHEE-UH”) seeds are the itty bitty seeds produced from an herb called salvia hispanica, a flowering plant in the mint family. Chia seeds are considered a “super food” by many because they really pack a nutritional punch for their tiny size.

They contain EIGHT times the amount of omega-3 fats than salmon, which is crazy because salmon is a huge source of omega-3 as it is! The seeds are also very high in omega-6 fatty acids (Omega-3 and omega-6 fats are essential fatty acids – read about them here!)

There is 11g of fibre in just a 1oz. serving of chia seeds, which is almost half of the recommended daily fibre intake!

Good source of protein

Contain a variety of minerals including calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus and magnesium

Rich in antioxidants

The gel produced by chia seeds helps your body slow the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar, which helps gives you sustained energy rather than a spike followed by a crash.

Combining chia with water creates a gel that can be used as an egg substitute in your favorite recipes!

Chia seeds also contain no gluten (wahoo!)

Because of their minuscule size, chia seeds are best consumed when mixed with other foods. Sprinkle them on your cereal, yogurt, salads, or smoothies or mix them into pancakes, oatmeal or muffin batters – you’ll never know they’re there! Chia seeds are similar to tapioca pearls in the fact that they are hydrophilic and can absorb up to ten times their weight in liquid, causing them to puff up and become a nutritious and filling pudding. Cool!